• By Imran Zafar
  • Sat, 07 Sep 2024 11:09 PM (IST)
  • Source:JND

Authorities in Jammu and Kashmir on Saturday recommended filing a case against a National Conference (NC) leader for allegedly inciting hatred during an election rally for party leader Omar Abdullah in Ganderbal. The rally, held on Saturday, became controversial when former sarpanch Mohammad Ashraf Ganaie used inflammatory language, stating, “We can kill” anyone who disrespects the party flag.

Mushtaq Ahmad Simnani, the Nodal Officer for the Model Code of Conduct, recommended that an FIR be registered against Ganaie. In his letter to officials, Simnani emphasised the seriousness of the remarks, stating that legal action should be pursued for promoting hatred and violating election conduct guidelines.

"An FIR should be lodged against the culprit under the applicable laws for promoting hatred through his speech and violating the model code of conduct," the nodal officer said in the letter to the concerned official.

ALSO READ: Afzal Guru's Hanging 'Did Not Serve Any Purpose', Says Omar Abdullah Ahead Of J-K Polls

The incident occurred during a rally where Omar Abdullah was present. After Mohammad Ashraf Ganaie’s inflammatory comment, Omar Abdullah quickly intervened, preventing Ganaie from continuing his speech. Video evidence of the event prompted the complaint, and several members of the audience reportedly expressed their disapproval of Ganaie’s statement.

Omar Abdullah is contesting the upcoming assembly elections from both Ganderbal and Budgam segments, which are set for the second phase of voting on September 25.

ALSO READ: 'Only Modi Can...': Amit Shah Slams Congress, NC For Misleading Jammu And Kashmir Voters With Statehood Promise

In a separate development, Omar Abdullah accused the BJP of secretly allying with regional parties and independent candidates to form a government in the region. He pointed to remarks made by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, who during the BJP’s manifesto launch, did not mention Apni Party or People's Conference, suggesting covert alliances. Shah had expressed confidence in the BJP forming the next government while ruling out alliances with the PDP, NC and Congress.

(With Agency Inputs)